We had the good fortune of connecting with Melia Stephens and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Melia, what do you attribute your success to?
The most important factor behind my success (aside from God) is determination. Determination has allowed me to succeed despite obstacles, failures, or discouragement. It is the force that pushes me forward when challenges arise and the motivation that keeps me striving for excellence.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
JOi – Just One Ingredient Pet Treats, LLC specializes in single-ingredient gourmet-style pet treats without salt or preservatives. I got started with the business as I was unable to sustain a raw diet for my pet because she is a slow, picky eater and food safety became a huge concern. I began dehydrating meats as a way to supplement her diet with high quality protein. I noticed how obsessed my pup was with my treats so I decided to share the JOi with all!
Starting the business was simple and did not require a ton of leg work. I think the hardest part was researching all of the food safety rules and regulations to ensure compliance.
I am learning to put myself out there and am pleasantly surprised at the community support I have received since launching the business in December 2024.
As a Pediatric Nurse for over 20 years, I truly thought I found my passion. When I obtained my Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree and became nursing faculty at Georgia State University, I surely thought I hit the jackpot (and did!). However, launching my own business has proven to be the most gratifying…there is nothing more rewarding than working for yourself!
I want the world to know that you can do anything you put your mind to. For all the younger generations, look at your future like a blank canvas. You can paint it however you choose, but make it fun, make it bright, make it rewarding, make it worthwhile. I have a very successful career and never imagined being an entrepreneur, yet here I am! The beautiful part, is the best is yet to come!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
My backyardia :-)… other than that, it would be Ponce City Market for sure! Ponce is a great place to shop, dine, walk, and play. There are even farmer’s markets along the belt line bringing fresh and homemade goods to the locals. I would also suggest East Atlanta Village for a local, quaint, lively spot to hang out day or night!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I must give a Shoutout to my daughter, Melina Hicks, who has been instrumental in the start-up of our business, JOi – Just One Ingredient Pet Treats, LLC, but is also my greatest motivation for success! I also want to give a Shoutout to my mom, Dora Cato Swann, who instilled in me that “no matter what I do, be the very best at it that I can be”
`~Thank you both for being my greatest supporters!

Website: joipettreats.com

Instagram: joipettreats

Linkedin: Melia Stephens, DNP, APRN, CPNP-PC

Facebook: JOI- Just One Ingredient Pet Treats, LLC

Yelp: JOI- Just One Ingredient Pet Treats, LLC

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